TRANS CANADA TRAIL (KETTLE VALLEY RAIL GRADE)

Opening in 2000, the Trans Canada Trail is a 21,500-kilometre recreational trail winding its way through every province and territory, from the Atlantic to Pacific to Arctic Oceans. When completed, it will be the world’s longest recreational trail, linking close to 1000 communities and over 33 million Canadians.

Now part of the Spirit of 2010 Trail, the Christina Lake section presents a unique and diverse experience for hikers and bike riders. Explore the open terrain of the Gilpin Grasslands, the awe inspiring natural wonders of the Cascade Gorge and the Kettle River Trestle Bridge to the west. Enjoy spectacular views from the heights of the Santa Rosa/Fife section and the ascent to the Paulson summit along the historic Kettle Valley Railway grade to the northeast. The full journey from Grand Forks to Castlegar will take you across two recently redecked trestle bridges, several rail bridges, through six tunnels, and past numerous historic sites including Cascade Dam, the Fife ore loading tower and Bulldog Tunnel.

With an abundance of access points along the way, travelers can take their time exploring the trail section by section. WildWays offers convenient shuttle services for hikes or biking, and while you are there, be sure to pick up your copy of the new Trans Canada Trail: British Columbia guidebook.